affirmative

af-fir-ma-tive · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    Expressing agreement, acceptance, or consent; answering "yes."

  2. 2.

    (Grammar) Stating that something is true or factual, as opposed to negative.

  3. 3.

    Supporting or encouraging a particular position or action.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    in the affirmative — Expressing agreement; saying yes.
  • •
    affirmative action — Policies favoring groups who have historically faced discrimination.
  • •
    affirmative defense — A legal defense that admits the facts but provides justification.

Related words

Antonyms: denying, negative
See also: affirm, negative, positive
Synonyms: assenting, confirming, positive

Etymology

From Late Latin affirmativus, from Latin affirmare ("to make firm, assert"), from ad- ("to") + firmare ("to strengthen"), from firmus ("firm, strong").